HMX Lucky vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lucky switch is renowned for its softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a lightweight and neutral typing experience that many users find deeply satisfying. Its emphasis on a gentle keystroke makes it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle touch without sacrificing performance. In contrast, the WS Jade switch stands out with its metallic insert at the stem base, delivering a bright and resonant sound profile that adds an auditory dimension to the typing experience. Users are treated to a uniquely creamy and smooth action, capped off with a rock-solid bottom-out that many enthusiasts crave, along with a light diffuser enhancing the overall RGB aesthetics. While both switches are linear and offer pleasurable typing experiences, the Lucky excels in subtlety, while the WS Jade shines in vibrancy and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

Wuque Studio WS Jade Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Jade each bring unique auditory qualities to the typing experience, despite some similarities in their basic functions. The HMX Lucky uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that feels rounded and subdued, offering a pleasant auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the WS Jade opts for polyoxymethylene (POM) for its housing—this material is celebrated for its unique sound characteristics as well. While both housings aim for a deeper acoustic response, the POM offers a slightly different take with a sound profile that is described as muted yet pleasing.

While the HMX Lucky's nylon housings contribute significantly to the overall sound profile, both top and bottom, the WS Jade's POM top and bottom housings provide distinct but complementary characteristics. The nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, creating a duller timbre when compared to POM, which while softer than many plastics, offers a different tactile feedback and sound quality. Consequently, the typing experience varies between the two switches: the Lucky offers a warmer, more rounded sound across its entire stroke, while the WS Jade leans towards a crisper yet still muted sound, resulting in a distinct auditory signature at the top of the keypress.

Despite their differences in material—nylon versus POM—the two switches can create similar auditory experiences depending on how each housing's qualities interact. In switches that feature distinct top and bottom housings, such as the WS Jade, the nuanced characteristics of the top housing can impact the release tone, whereas the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out feel and sound. Therefore, while the HMX Lucky leans on the cohesive qualities of nylon to ensure a continuous sound signature throughout the keypress, users of the WS Jade can still achieve pleasing acoustic results thanks to the well-thought-out combination of POM across both housings, ultimately resulting in a typing experience that is rooted in depth and quality.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as its low weight can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Jade switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial and solid typing experience. Thus, if you favor a lighter touch, the Lucky switch would be more suitable, while the WS Jade switch offers a firmer resistance for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, these distinctions cater to different user preferences, with the Lucky switch being the lighter option and desirable for long periods of use, while the WS Jade offers a heftier feel for a more pronounced tactile experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Lucky switch offers a more pronounced keypress experience, which some users may prefer for its deeper feel, while the Jade's shorter travel distance could appeal to those seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers who benefit from faster actuation. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Lucky switch may provide a more satisfying tactile depth for users who enjoy the sensation of pressing down further, whereas the WS Jade could suit those who prioritize rapid key activation. Overall, if you favor a more robust typing experience, the Lucky would be the better choice, but for those who prefer quick responsiveness, the Jade is the way to go.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch does not have a defined auditory profile provided, but it is generally expected to offer a more muted and neutral sound, characteristic of linear switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is distinguished by its bright and resonant sound profile due to the metallic insert in its stem base. This results in a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound when pressed, producing a crisp and percussive auditory experience that many typists find engaging. Consequently, while both switches may deliver satisfying sounds, the WS Jade stands out with a more vibrant acoustic performance, setting it apart in terms of auditory feedback.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky switch is noted for providing a neutral and satisfying typing experience, but specific descriptors were not provided, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat open to interpretation. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch excels in delivering a uniquely smooth and creamy feel, enhanced by its silky texture that minimizes resistance during keystrokes. This contributes to a delightful typing sensation, akin to gliding effortlessly across the keys. As a result, while the Lucky offers a solid experience, the WS Jade is likely to feel more luxurious and fluid, appealing to users who prioritize a high smoothness factor in their typing experience.

Bringing together all the information available, the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lucky is well-suited for those who appreciate a more subdued sound profile and a neutral typing experience. In contrast, the WS Jade is ideal for users who seek an engaging auditory experience combined with a notably smooth and creamy feel. Overall, while both switches can deliver satisfying performance, the WS Jade is likely to be more appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy a rich sound and luxurious typing sensation.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 43 grams, the Lucky switch is an excellent option. Its soft, glittery nylon housing provides a neutral yet satisfying typing experience ideal for extended use or gaming sessions where speed is essential. The sound profile of the Lucky is described simply, with a focus on the nuances of your keystrokes rather than any overwhelming noise, making it suitable for quiet environments. In contrast, if you enjoy a more substantial feel under your fingers, the WS Jade's medium 60 grams bottom-out force offers a rock-solid typing experience. This switch stands out with its clacky, marbly sound profile, providing a bright and resonant auditory feedback that can be quite enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate the tactile and acoustic aspects of typing. With its silky and creamy feel, the Jade switch enhances the overall smoothness and minimizes resistance, making it ideal for longer typing sessions when you want an engaging and luxurious experience. In the end, your choice should reflect whether you value a lightweight, quiet typing experience or a firmer, more satisfying acoustic profile.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Jade Linear

$4.30 per 10

Learn more